Many Hotchner x reader fanfictions also involve the aspect of teamwork within the BAU. The reader might be a new member or an outsider who gets involved with the team, and through working on cases together with Hotchner, their relationship blossoms. It shows how their professional relationship can turn into a personal one over time. Also, themes of trust and loyalty are often present, as they both have to trust each other in dangerous situations.
The theme of protection is also quite prevalent. Hotchner is a protective person by nature, and in these fanfictions, he often goes out of his way to protect the reader from harm, whether it's from criminals they are chasing or from internal threats within the BAU. And the reader may also provide emotional protection for Hotchner, giving him a safe space to open up.
One common theme is the struggle between work and personal relationships. Since Hotchner is a work - focused character in the show, fanfics often explore how he balances his job with his feelings for the reader.
Overcoming trauma is another theme. Hotchner has his own share of past traumas, and in some fanfics, the relationship with the reader is a way for him to heal. At the same time, the reader may also have their own issues that they work through together with Hotchner, creating a deep and meaningful bond.
Another theme is mentorship. Sometimes it's shown as Hotchner mentoring Reid, guiding him not just in their work but also in handling the pressures of the job. It can also be the other way around, with Reid's unique knowledge helping Hotchner see things from a different perspective. There are also themes of loyalty and friendship. They are always there for each other, no matter what challenges they face, and their friendship is often a central aspect of the fanfiction stories.
One common theme is his leadership. Many fanfictions explore how he leads the BAU team, the decisions he makes, and the impact on the team members. Another theme is his family life, especially his relationship with his son. Writers often use this to show his softer side. Also, his friendships within the team, like his bond with Rossi, are often a theme.
A possible theme is his struggle to maintain his leadership role even while being sick. He might try to keep working or guiding the team from his sickbed. This shows his dedication to the job and his sense of responsibility. It also creates a conflict within the story as he has to balance his own health with his duties, and the way he resolves this conflict can be an interesting aspect of the fanfiction.
One common theme is family loyalty. These fanfictions often show the strong bond between Aaron and his sister, and how they would do anything to protect each other.
Another theme is the emotional support within their relationship. Given the nature of Aaron's work, his wife often serves as a source of comfort and stability. Fanfictions like to play with this aspect, showing how they lean on each other.
The theme of family also pops up sometimes. Given Hotchner's own family situation in the show, the OC might interact with his family members, or they might create their own 'family - like' bond within the team. This can involve things like the OC being there for Hotchner's son or helping him navigate his complex family relationships.
One common theme is physical injury. Maybe he gets injured during a case, like being shot or beaten while trying to catch a criminal. This often leads to his team rallying around him.
A sense of belonging is another big theme. The reader, who may feel like an outsider in the real world, finds a place where they belong among the mutants. There are also themes related to fighting for justice, just like the X - Men do in the original stories.